The Australian Test skipper Pat Cummins is often regarded as one of the best modern-day Test captains. And he just demonstrated his tricks along with his bowling abilities when he dismissed the South African all-rounder Wiaan Mulder.
Pat Cummins dismissed Wiaan Mulder with a well-thought-out plan, using the slope, angles, and subtle field changes to perfection. The plot started in the 14th over. Operating from the Pavilion End at Lord’s, Cummins initially came closer to the stumps while releasing the ball wider to pitch it up the hill. The deliveries seamed in just enough to plant doubt in Mulder’s mind, though he chose to leave them.
Recognizing the hesitation, Cummins made tactical adjustments. He removed the short leg, moved a fielder to square leg, and pulled out a slip—possibly inviting a flick or a drive. The very next ball, he went wide of the crease and targeted Mulder's pads. Mulder couldn’t take advantage.
Then came the switch. Cummins reverted to his tighter angle, this time pitching fuller and closer to the slope. With the front foot not moving, Mulder remained rooted as Cummins subtly shortened his length to draw the drive.
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By over 15.2, the trap was set. bowled a fuller ball that nipped in from outside off. Mulder went for the drive without foot movement. The ball slid through the gate and crashed into middle stump. A calculated build-up, and a classic Cummins finish.
Watch the build-up here:
Notably, Australia's 212 looked modest, but their pacers flipped the script. Despite fifties from Smith and Webster, Rabada’s 5-for rocked the Aussies. Yet South Africa crumbled to 43/4 by stumps on Day 1.
